COLUMBIA, S.C. — As the high-profile Alex Murdaugh hearing unfolds in Columbia, it has captivated the attention of many, drawing an influx of attorneys, media personnel, and invested individuals to the state's capital.
"I come here because I feel that, being in the court, that the defense attorneys they are trying to put a monkey wrench in the wheel of justice," says Rev. Raymond Johnson, who traveled from Marion for the hearing.
Rev. Johnson didn't miss a single day of the Murdaugh trial, and says he isn't missing this hearing, "I was there for the pulling of the jury, and I'll be here until the end," he stated emphatically.
"Wow, this has been a whirlwind, I think it's been very unexpected with lots of twists and turns," says Michelle Dupree.
She says after attending the trial in Walterboro, she had to come for the hearing, "I just had to see it for myself, I wanted to see what the evidence was and to hear the testimony from the jurors, and it's been eye-opening."
The increased foot traffic in the city due to the trial has also impacted local businesses positively.
Ambrosia, a restaurant located just feet away from the courtroom said it experienced a surge in patrons.
"We had a huge influx of people which was awesome," shift lead Amethyst Ayer said. "We love seeing that, and we were happy people we were trying our food. Some had to leave with to-go boxes instead of their full plates, but we're happy to do it and hopefully they still enjoyed it."
The trial's impact also extended beyond the courtroom, with limited parking and numerous street closures.
"I'm surprised. I thought people were kinda bored with it. I know it's an ongoing story and saga, but I am a little surprised," Mary Littlebrat said. "I knew the trial was happening, I saw it on the news this morning, and all I could think was I just want it to go away."
Alex Murdaugh was denied a retrial.